Volcano Bay vs Typhoon Lagoon: Differences & Which One Is Better?

Orlando is an entertainment mecca home to world-famous theme parks and exciting water parks.

Florida’s hot summers and mild winters make it a popular vacation destination all year round, especially the water parks at Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World.

When choosing whether to visit Universal’s Volcano Bay or Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, there are a few things to consider.

Like most of the parks at Universal Orlando, the Polynesian-themed Volcano Bay is best suited for teens and adults who love an adrenaline boost. In contrast, Typhoon Lagoon is quintessentially Disney, making this water park modeled around a tropical storm great for families with kids.

This article compares the location, themes, attractions, pricing, and amenities at Universal’s Volcano Bay and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon to help potential parkgoers decide which is best for them.

Where Are Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon Located?

Orlando, Florida is marked with red pushpin on the map of Florida.

While both Universal’s Volcano Bay and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon are located in Orlando, Florida, they are situated within different resorts.

Volcano Bay’s Location

Volcano Bay is located at the Universal Orlando Resort, about 16 miles (26 km) west of Orlando International Airport and about 10 miles (16 km) southwest of Orlando’s city center.

For virtual maps of Volcano Bay water park, guests should download the official Universal Orlando mobile app.

Typhoon Lagoon’s Location

Typhoon Lagoon is one of two water parks at Walt Disney World.

Disney World is approximately 17 mi (27 km) southwest of the Orlando airport and around 18 mi (29 km) from downtown Orlando.

Parkgoers can utilize the maps featured on the My Disney Experience app to help them navigate the park.

What Are the Different Themes at Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon?

What makes Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon so appealing is their ability to transport guests to a uniquely crafted oasis, no matter the time of year.

Volcano Bay’s Theme

Volcano Bay is designed around a fictional volcanic island influenced by Polynesian culture and volcanic environments.

The Krakatau Volcano resides in the heart of the water park, towering over the various attractions, cabanas, beaches, and lava flows.

Typhoon Lagoon’s Theme

Typhoon Lagoon is a tropical gem hidden in the debris left behind after a monstrous typhoon.

Mount Mayday protrudes from the water park’s grounds creating a thematic peak that spears itself through the wreckage of the Miss Tilly shrimping vessel.

Who Will Enjoy Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon?

Men on a raft are getting wet from the water.

Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon offer different types of attractions that cater to specific audiences.

Volcano Bay’s Audience

Given its fast-paced water slides, bouncing rafting rides, and exciting aqua coasters, Volcano Bay is geared more toward teens and adults.

The complete list of Volcano Bay’s thrill rides includes:

True adrenaline-seekers will want to try out the Ko’orkiri Body Plunge.

This drop capsule ride is the tallest body slide in America, reaching a height of approximately 125 feet (38.1 m).

Guests can check out the official Universal Orlando website or Universal’s mobile app to explore the rides and attractions at Volcano Bay.

Typhoon Lagoon’s Audience

Typhoon Lagoon is tamer than Volcano Bay, offering a more kid-friendly environment.

Water rides at Typhoon Lagoon include:

A must-see attraction at this Disney water park is the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool – it’s North America’s largest wave pool and produces waves up to 6 feet (1.8 m) tall.

Parkgoers can search the official Disney website or My Disney Experience app for more info on height requirements and ride selections at Typhoon Lagoon.

What Is the Price Difference Between Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon?

Volcano Bay Ticket Costs

At Volcano Bay, 1-Day Ticket prices start at $70 per adult and $65 per child under ten.

Pricing depends on the time of the year and whether Volcano Bay passes are combined with additional park admissions, multiple-day visits, or if any extras are added.

For more info on tickets and pricing, guests can visit Universal Orlando’s Park Tickets page or check out the Universal app.

Typhoon Lagoon Ticket Costs

At Typhoon Lagoon, 1-Day Water Park Tickets start at $69 for guests ages ten and older and $63 for children ages 3-9.

Typhoon Lagoon also offers less expensive 1-Day Water Park Tickets with blockout dates at $64 for parkgoers 10+ and $58 for children ages 3-9.

These tickets are subject to summer and early fall blockout dates beyond the current year.

Exclusive prices may also be available for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members.
For more on Disney World water park tickets a n d pricing, guests can check out the official website or the My Disney Experience app.

How Do the Amenities at Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon Compare?

White sun loungers at the pool side of a resort.

Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon deliver amenities for their guests that ensure convenience and comfort alongside all the fun.

Volcano Bay’s Amenities

Volcano Bay Transportation

Guests driving themselves to Volcano Bay should follow the signs posted throughout the property to the designated parking area on the first level of the Universal Orlando Parking Garage.

Parking fees range from $27-$60, depending on the vehicle or parking service.

From the Volcano Bay parking area, guests then board the complimentary shuttle to the water park’s entrance.

Volcano Bay Lockers

Volcano Bay features all-day locker rentals on a first-come-first-served basis.

Lockers come in three sizes: mini, regular, and family.

Mini lockers are approximately 14.1” x 5.5” x 17.7” (35.8 cm x 14 cm x 43.4 cm) and cost $10 per day.

Regular lockers are around 16.2” x 12” x 16.9” (41.1 cm x 30.4 cm x 42.9 cm) and cost $16 per day.

Family lockers measure roughly 12” x 16.9” x 24.3” (30.4 cm x 42.9 cm x 61.7 cm) and cost $20 daily.

Volcano Bay Lounge Seating

At Volcano Bay, guests can lounge in luxury with cabana rentals that feature extra comfy seating, concierge services, snacks, and more.

Cabanas are available in two sizes: Single and Family-Sized.

Single Cabana Units hold up to six people and are available on upper and lower levels.

Family Suite Cabanas hold up to 16 people and offer large groups great views and more privacy.

Parkgoers can book Cabanas by calling 1-877-801-9720.

Premium Seating options are also available for guests who want the comfort of reserved seating.

To book Premium Seating, visitors can call (877) 489-8068.

Typhoon Lagoon’s Amenities

Typhoon Lagoon Transportation

Standard parking at Typhoon Lagoon is complimentary for guests who choose to drive.

Visitors staying on-site and using Disney World’s in-park bus services are dropped off at Typhoon Lagoon’s very own bus stop.

However, parkgoers may have to stop or transfer at Disney Springs when direct buses are unavailable.

Typhoon Lagoon Lockers

Locker rentals at Typhoon Lagoon come in standard and large sizes.

Standard lockers measure 12.5” x 10” x 17” (31.7 cm x 25.4 cm x 43.1 cm) and cost $10 per day.

Large lockers measure 15.5” x 13” x 17” (39.3 cm x 33 cm x 43.1 cm) and cost $15 per day.

Typhoon Lagoon Lounge Seating

Premium reserved seating is available at Typhoon Lagoon through Beachcomber Shack rentals.

Beachcomber shacks are private shaded seating areas that come in three options: standard, deluxe, and premium plus.

Beachcomber Shacks Standard accommodates up to 10 guests and costs $225-$340.

Beachcomber Shacks Deluxe can host a maximum of 12 guests, costing $299-$429.

Beachcomber Shacks Premium Plus allows up to 10 guests, provides the most amenities, and is priced between $300-$450.

Bookings can be made through Disney World’s official website or mobile app.

Conclusion

Universal’s Volcano Bay and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon are great destinations for anyone visiting the Orlando area.

Volcano Bay offers more thrilling rides and attractions, making it better suited for teenagers and adults looking for a fast-paced water-based experience.

In contrast, Typhoon Lagoon channels Disney’s family-friendly vibe, with tamer rides and attractions geared toward children.

The water parks are similarly priced and provide guests with a fun, relaxing, and amenities-filled visit.

When deciding whether to visit Volcano Bay or Typhoon Lagoon, potential parkgoers should consider the nature of their group, where they’re staying, and which park’s theme speaks to them more.

It’s never easy to pick between Disney World and Universal Orlando parks, but you can’t really go wrong whichever you choose.